17 things parents need to know when bringing children on a plane

Traveling with young children is a “challenge” that not all parents can handle, especially on long-haul flights. Here are some “tips” you should keep in mind.

Photo: ABC News

1. First, make a list of things to bring on the plane with your child. You can refer to the following list: toys or books to change every hour, empty water bottles for the child, a few changes of clothes, zip-lock plastic bags, wet wipes, jackets and blankets, headphones, iPad, cup with lid, candy, pacifiers, motion sickness medicine for children.

2. Don't bring too many diapers, because you can buy diapers at your destination. A diaper bag does not count as carry-on luggage. So bring a diaper bag, but only stuff a few diapers in it, and use the remaining space for other items.

3. Dress smartly and neatly. For children, dress them in snaps or zippers instead of traditional snaps. Nursing mothers should wear easy-to-unfasten tops and pants with as many pockets as possible.

Make a list of items to bring on the plane with your child - Photo: Lufthansa

4. Order a special meal like vegetarian, kosher or halal, whatever is on the menu. These are usually served first, meaning your child will eat earlier.

5. Inform the airline that you are travelling with a baby under 2 years old. Also, request a bassinet and a bulkhead seat for yourself. You can also request a window seat at the check-in counter for breastfeeding convenience.

6. Tag all baskets with your name, destination address, phone number or contact email in case you forget something while you're busy with the kids.

If you are bringing a breast pump, check that the electrical current at your destination is compatible with the pump.

Please inform the airline that you are traveling with a child under 2 years old - Photo: Aeroflot8

7. At some airports, you can find a dedicated lane for women with children under 2 or 3 years old in the security area.

8. Get to the airport early because having a baby can create a lot of errands to run.

9. Give your baby a bottle or pacifier during takeoff and landing to protect their ears from the change in pressure. Time it well, or your baby will finish eating before the plane takes off or lands. For older babies, you can also give them water or a lollipop.

10. Get to know the people sitting near you and apologize in advance if your child is causing trouble on the plane. Don’t be afraid to let them know if you’re traveling alone with a child. They can help you look after your child or hold your things if you need to use the restroom mid-flight.

Get to the airport early because bringing a baby can leave you with a lot of errands to run - Photo: ABC News

11. If the baby cries, sing, make funny noises, stand up, walk around or do something to distract the baby. Don't be afraid of being seen, because the most important thing is to make the baby stop crying, otherwise you will attract more attention.

12. Children 18 months and under can enjoy an iPad or cartoons.

13. Don't worry about the time difference. If the baby sleeps, let them sleep comfortably.

14. Wash your hands as much as possible, or carry hand sanitizer. Planes and airports are full of germs.

Children 18 months and under can enjoy an iPad or cartoons - Photo: The Spruce

15. Change up the games or treats every hour or so. Commonly used items include crayons and paper, stickers, crafts, toy phones, puppets, and books. Don’t bring anything that will roll if dropped on the floor, as it will be a hassle to pick it up and wash it before giving it to your child.

16. Download plenty of cartoons, TV shows, and games before your trip. You can even show your kids family photos.

17. Don't stress when your baby starts crying. Anyone with a baby can experience similar situations. On future flights, if you see parents with small children, be sympathetic and helpful.

According to TTO